The
SUI has as part of its brief the development of safe caving practice. It is
widely accepted that International caving plays a very important role in the
development of the sport and its participants. SUI therefore makes available
some funding each year for expeditions abroad.

In the past number of
years the following expeditions have been supported:

Guide Notes for applicants
'Expeditions are distinguished from holidays by several factors, but probably
the clearest differences are a search for previously undiscovered cave passage
and elements of risk, self reliance and background research which are not
normally required when simply jumping on a ferry.' (Ghar Parau
Foundation)

Criteria
for Judging ExpeditionsBecause of the
limited funding available and the growing number of applications made to SUI
each year, it is now necessary to formalise the process of application and
judge each expedition not only on its own merits but also against other applications.
The following should therefore be borne in mind when applying for funding.

What makes the expedition
unique?

In what way will it
help to develop caving and particularly Irish caving?

Is there significant
potential for new finds?

Is there a scientific
flavour to the expedition?

Has there been sufficient
preparatory research carried out?

Do the team members
match the objectives set out?

Is there enough time
to fulfil the expedition objectives?

The committee will also
consider what efforts are being made by the expedition team to fund the expedition
outside this application and the financial commitment being made by members
of the team. A track record from previous expeditions would be useful though
less experienced cavers who show sound expedition planning and potential will
also be considered.

Submitting
your ApplicationThe committee will consider
applications for funding twice each year. It is therefore necessary to apply
for grant aid well in advance of the expedition date. It is advisable to supplement
the official basic application form (available above in .pdf format) with
maps, surveys and other information deemed important to the successful outcome
of the expedition planned. Please furnish four copies of your application.
A decision will be made at least two month in advance of the departure date
and an answer will be sent to the expedition leader by post. Grants are deliverable
upon receipt of a comprehensive report on the Expedition which should be sent
to the Expedition Officer soon after the expedition returns and scientific
data correlated. This will facilitate future SUI funded expeditions to the
area and studies in similar areas of research.